Most people who follow these simple steps soon discover they can live on much less. They turn away from consumerism, and lead happier, more focussed lives. They stop being human doings and once again become human beings. Some even discover financial independence. Equally important, their impact on the planet is dramatically reduced. Win, win, win.

Seven Iranian students have received a suspended sentence of up to 12 months and 91 lashes each. Their crime: they recorded a video signing Pharrell Williams' song, Happy. A huge disconnect is obvious in Iran and Saudi Arabia where, in the name of Islam, varying degrees of orthodoxy is being enforced on the masses.

I sat down this morning to write out the top 20 things I have learned in my life so far, but after writing down four items, I started to cry deep, intense tears. I released the emotion and it felt amazing. Writing this blog reminded me of the pain and suffering I had endured to awaken to this wisdom. This is my gift to you. Here are my top 20 tips for living a better life.

Did you know you can actually train yourself to be happy? Happy and fully engaged leaders are important in the workplace, but it's just as vital for them to help their team learn how to get engaged with their own work. In this competitive, ever-changing and highly demanding business environment, more personal happiness might just be the big competitive advantage you've been looking for.

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation's 10th annual Cook For The Cure. I am all for getting into the spirit of things but it gets a bit trickier when the very foods being served are known contributors to the development of the disease (remember the deep fried Twinkies for Crohn's Disease?).